Transfer on death
A death in the family can be a draining, difficult experience. A Transfer on Death Agreement can help your loved ones during a stressful time.
Dealing with a death in the family is an emotionally draining and challenging time, but having to struggle with assets that are held up in probate can unnecessarily add to the burden. To help make sure your loved ones receive their inheritance according to your wishes, you may want to consider a Transfer on Death Agreement (TOD). A TOD helps avoid the delays and potential costs that could occur with the probate process, and allows you to manage your estate by allowing the assets in your account to transfer directly to your beneficiaries at the time of your death. For more details about TOD agreements, refer to the PDF below.
Spousal consent
If you're married and living in (or previously lived in) a community-property state with your spouse and you're not naming spouse as the sole, primary beneficiary – you need to do two things: 1) Provide your financial advisor with a completed spousal consent form, and 2) Complete your TOD Agreement Beneficiary Designation form.
Please note: The witness must (a) be a disinterested party to the account owner (i.e., someone not named in the TOD Agreement), and (b) witness the spouse signing the form. A branch office administrator can serve as a witness. This form does not require notarization.
Take the next step
A TOD will cover all the assets in your account at Edward Jones. TODs are not designed to handle all the issues your estate could face, and you may have unique circumstances that should be considered. Consult an estate-planning professional about your situation. Your Edward Jones financial advisor can also work with your attorney to help determine if a TOD would be appropriate for your situation.